J&J
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
McNeil consumer franchise generated "modest" 2% sales growth - primarily in the U.S. -during Q3, although prescription COX-2 inhibitors continue to negatively affect Tylenol sales, firm says in Oct. 16 analysts call. Reintroduction of St. Joseph aspirin for adult cardiotherapy, acquisition of Viactiv calcium chews from Mead Johnson were "positive contributors" to growth. J&J worldwide consumer sales rose 3.2% to $1.78 bil., including negative currency impact, with skin care sales up 10% operationally. Consolidated sales jumped 10.8% to $8.24 bil., with net earnings of $1.53 bil., a 15.6% swell